Ulhasnagar Municipal Corporation Alerts Property Buyers to Verify Building Legality Amid Unauthorized Construction Surge

The Ulhasnagar Municipal Corporation (UMC) has issued an important advisory urging prospective homebuyers and commercial property purchasers to thoroughly verify the legality of buildings before making any purchase decisions, following a significant increase in unauthorized construction cases throughout the city in Thane district.

Municipal Corporation Issues Comprehensive Buyer Advisory

The advisory, which was formally signed by UMC Additional Municipal Commissioner Dhiraj Chavan, emphasizes that buyers must check whether buildings have received valid permissions from the Town Planning department before completing any transaction. The municipal body has clarified that many flats and shops are currently being sold without obtaining the requisite approvals from authorities.

According to the corporation's guidance, purchasers need to ensure that properties possess an Occupancy Certificate (OC), as unapproved structures may face demolition orders at a later stage. The advisory further stressed the importance of verifying clearances from the municipal body for any revised permissions, helping buyers avoid property scams involving developer mis-sale of plots that do not comply with established regulations.

The civic body has made it clear that it will not assume responsibility for financial losses incurred by buyers who purchase structures that are deemed illegal.

Historical Context of Illegal Constructions in Ulhasnagar

Ulhasnagar has been grappling with issues related to unauthorized constructions for an extended period. During the early 2000s, approximately 855 illegal buildings received demolition orders following a directive from the high court, though many of these structures were subsequently regularized under a state resolution.

Recent enforcement measures are currently underway across the city, including the demolition of a 16-storey building where portions were constructed on a Development Plan (DP) road in clear violation of urban planning norms. The UMC has warned that ongoing sales activities in unauthorized buildings are exposing buyers to substantial financial risk and legal uncertainty.

Implications for Buyers, Developers, and Municipal Authorities

For property buyers, ensuring building legality has become critical to avoid being entangled in demolition orders or regulatory crack-downs. The advisory serves as an essential reminder for those looking to invest in Ulhasnagar property.

Developers and brokers are now facing increased pressure to obtain clear municipal permissions and Occupancy Certificates, which have become even more important for maintaining legitimacy and reducing potential liabilities. The move by municipal authorities aims to enhance transparency in property transactions and discourage the proliferation of non-compliant construction activities.

Essential Steps Before Property Purchase

Before committing to any property purchase, the UMC advises buyers to take the following precautionary measures:

• Verify building and layout permissions directly with the UMC's Town Planning department
• Confirm the presence of an Occupancy Certificate and check whether all revised approvals are properly in place
• Insist on receiving documented links to permitted plans and official registrations before transferring any funds

This advisory aligns with similar measures being taken across other cities to protect homebuyers. Similar warnings about illegal constructions have been issued in Gurugram and Karnataka has cracked down on unauthorized land layouts with strict enforcement actions.

Those interested in understanding more about legal protections should also review essential things to check before buying a new home and learn about the vital importance of Occupancy Certificates when purchasing property in India.

Disclaimer: This news article is based on publicly available information and advisory issued by the Ulhasnagar Municipal Corporation. Readers are advised to independently verify all property-related documentation and consult legal experts before making any real estate investment decisions. The information provided is for general awareness purposes only and should not be considered as legal or financial advice.